Considers the strengths and weaknesses of an integrative approach to family therapy. An integrative approach can explain a broad range of human behavior and can shape intervention strategy in a manner appropriate to each case. The potential pitfalls basically revolve around the complexity of practice. (JAC)

Examines theoretical dilemmas arising from the polarization of family epistemologies into the pragmatic and the aesthetic. Examines the problem of ascertaining the truth of any theory, from three perspectives: truth as fact, coherence, and usefulness. Concludes with four advantages of applying systems theory to the theory and practice of family…

Suggests that the Milan systemic approach probably reflects a significant advance in family therapy and possibly in psychotherapy in general. Provides a historical overview of the development of the approach, an articulation of some major assumptions and background theory, and a brief description of the overall pattern of practice. (Author/JAC)

Examines the major principles and goals of contextual therapy and methods employed in its clinical application. A second article presents an interview with Dr. Ivan Boszormenyi-Nagy, who developed contextual family therapy. The interview ranges from Dr. Nagy's early training to the theoretical and clinical foundations of contextual family therapy.…

This digest briefly reviews theoretical models for counseling dysfunctional familes, then discusses the use of systems theory in counseling families. It lists the characteristics of a dysfunctional family, explains family systems intervention, discusses the goals of family treatment, and describes several family systems counseling techniques. (NB)

The theories, techniques, and applications of interventions in social networks have multiplied in recent years. This paper traces significant clinical literature on networks, at the same time pointing out similarities with tribal healing in "primitive" societies. (Author)

Q-sorts by experts were used to compare four structural/strategic/systemic therapy models. Results suggest that the models share a practical, strategic orientation to change, emphasizing reframing, but attach different importance to history, inference, abstraction, and contextual breadth. (Author)

Argues that there are severe and insurmountable problems in attempting to maintain a systemic perspective in family therapy. Advocates decentering family therapy to a more peripheral space within social network perspective. (Author/NB)

Holistic epistemology of systems must neither reify the system nor obscure the dynamics of the members. The sometimes diverging perspectives of the psychodynamic/growth and structural/strategic approaches actually converge in the realization that personal experiencing and social structure are not dichotomous phenomena but are related through the…

This paper focuses on assisting families who have been damaged by substance abuse and on constructive involvement of families to help all members cope. The four main topics are: (1) "Substance Abuse and Family Systems," including the effects of substance abuse on families and children; (2) "Theories and Approaches to Family…

Assesses the theoretical perspectives of marriage and family counselors (N=204). Results show that 43.6% of participants primarily adhere to the systems paradigm; 42.2% practice from a combination of paradigms; while the social constructionism is used by 13.7%. Predictor variables included the current of most recent supervisor's preferred…

Increases in delinquency and violence over the past decade are often rooted in a number of interrelated social problems that may originate within the family structure. The focus of this publication is the effectiveness of family intervention programs and chronicles one type of intervention, the Functional Family Therapy (FFT). FFT draws on a…

Identifies several of the most important forms of recent and current family research and family therapy that are important to clinicians. Suggests that the reunion of clinical and research interests signifies a new growth of the family therapy field. (Author/JAC)

Reviews recent empirical outcome literature on family therapy, with special attention to the link among presenting symptom, assessment of system dynamics, and effective outcome. Offers a research design which links symptom via functional system consequence to family process and to therapy outcome. (Author/WAS)

Criticizes systems theory for providing an inappropriate model of the family. Proposes that the family should be conceived of as a matrix of interlocking experiences. (RJC)